Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Abdoulkader Omar, has stated that his country is experiencing significant humanitarian pressures due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The minister emphasized that the influx of thousands of displaced persons into Djibouti is exceeding the country's capacity to meet their needs. He made these remarks during his address to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
According to Minister Omar, Djibouti is closely monitoring the situation in Yemen, and the country is directly feeling the effects of the conflict, with thousands of people arriving on its shores, fleeing violence. He noted that this situation is placing significant pressure on the host communities in the Obock region, as well as on the capacity of the refugee camp known as Markazi.
The Foreign Minister warned that Djibouti cannot alone meet the increasing needs for shelter, food, and basic services. He called on the international community to intensify its support to enable his government to respond adequately to this influx. The minister cited estimates by the United Nations that the number of Yemeni displaced persons could reach 10,000.
Minister Omar emphasized the need for de-escalation and a sustainable political solution to the Yemen conflict to prevent this humanitarian crisis from becoming a long-term situation and to preserve the lives of civilians. He also highlighted the strategic importance of freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea, which are vital for international trade and regional stability.
The minister noted that Djibouti has not yet observed any disruptions in shipping through the strait, but the authorities continue to monitor the situation closely amid current regional tensions. Djibouti's location on the western coast of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, opposite Yemen, makes it one of the countries directly affected by security and humanitarian developments in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with thousands of people displaced and in need of assistance. Djibouti's government is working to provide support to those arriving, but the country's resources are being stretched. The international community has been urged to provide additional support to help address the crisis.
The situation in Yemen and its impact on neighboring countries, including Djibouti, remains a pressing concern for the international community. The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations are working to provide assistance to those affected, but more support is needed to address the scale of the crisis.
Key points
- Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Abdoulkader Omar, warns that the influx of displaced persons from Yemen is exceeding the country's capacity to meet their needs.
- The number of Yemeni displaced persons could reach 10,000, according to United Nations estimates.
- The international community has been urged to provide additional support to help address the humanitarian crisis in Djibouti and the region.
